2026 Hot Takes

Hot Takes is USU’s hottest interview gameshow, combining intellectual discussions, challenges, and fiery hot wings! You can change the outcome of the show! Vote for your favorite contestant each round as they compete for points to secure their spot on the USU Dining Services "Wall of Flame." Audience members can make donations during the show to trigger a sound queue that requires all contestants to take another bite of their hot sauce smothered chicken!

At the end of the show, the contestant with the most points will be crowned the "Extinguisher of Flames," awarded the prestigious Dining Services GOAT Trophy, and have their name engraved on the Hot Takes Plaque displayed in The Junction!

Hot Takes 2026 Popular Choice Chicken Competition

From 6:00pm to 7:00pm, attendees can purchase Chicken Tickets to exchange at booths hosted by local chicken restaurants for samplers. The restaurant collecting the most tickets wins the Hot Takes 2026 Popular Choice Chicken Award. Restaurants may bring their own sauces, and USU Dining Services will provide over 60 sauces for everyone to try.

Fundraising Impact

100% of proceeds from Chicken Tickets and donations directly support the Graduate Student Emergency Hardship Fund.

Meet the 2026 Hot Takes Lineup

Meet the 2025 Hot Takes Lineup